Literature has traditionally been applied to those imaginative works of poetry and prose distinguished by the intentions of their authors and the perceived aesthetic excellence of their execution. As the mind map diagram below suggests, Literature is a group of works of art made up of words. Most are written, but some are passed on by word of mouth. Literature usually means works of poetry, theater, or narrative that are especially well written. It helps us understand where we come from, how we evolved, guides us towards the future, and adds meaning to our often chaotic, fantastically tremendous lives. As the mind map suggests, Literature helps us understand where we come from, how we evolved, guides us towards the future, and adds meaning to our often chaotic, fantastically tremendous lives.